The Norwich Terrier

Appearance

One of the smallest terriers the Norwich is small, low, keen compact and strong with good substance and bone. They have a lovable disposition, not quarrelsome, tremendously active with a hardy constitution. Their ideal size is 25-26 cms at the withers and their coast colours can be all shades of red, wheaten black and tan. The coat should be hard, wiry, straight, laying close to the body, thick undercoat. Longer and rougher on the neck forming a ruff to frame the face. Hair on the head and ears short and smooth, except for slight whiskers and eyebrows.

History

In England in the early 1900's a small red terrier, known as a Norwich Terrier being bred both as a working terrier and a family companion. Through the ensuing years the breed progressed and gained in popularity with both pricked and dropped ears being part of the one breed. In 1932 the Kennel Club officially recognised the Norwich Terrier as a breed allowed them to participate in dog shows. By 1935 the breed registrations were sufficient for the Kennel Club to offer Challenge Certificates. As more breeders became involved and numbers increased it became obvious that the difference between the pricked and dropped ears was having an effect on the future of the breed in the showring and some judges were finding it difficult to judge them together in one class. Breed seperation took place in 1964 with the pricked ear variety to be known as the Norwich Terrier and dropped ear variety as the Norfolk Terrier. They are known mostly for their working ability as tarrers, the small size and quick movement allow them to creep into small spaces which are not accesible to larger terriers.

Temperament

Bright happy and fiendly disposition, very intelligent. The are most wonderful companions to old and young, for families and people living alone. Definitely a dog to be inside as part of the family life.

Care / Grooming

For a pet and family dog a good brush and comb a couple of times per week with a bath about once a month depending on circumstances. Norwich terriers will shed coat once or twice a year all dead coat needs to be stripped out and this can be done with a brush and comb for a pet dog. If you wish to show your Norwich you should talk to the breeder about stripping the coat.

Health

A very hardy wash and wear little breed not in any way delicate. Nails should be clipped once a month and regular worm, flea and heartworm treatment is required.

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